Watford turn to ex-Chelsea midfielder for manager No4

I am the Deputy Sports Editor at City A.M. I previously worked as John Grogan MP's Parliamentary Researcher/Office Manager/Press and Communications Officer between 2005 and 2010 in one of the most marginal seats in the country -- majority of 467. E-mail: ross.mclean@cityam.com

Follow Ross

Ross McLean

FORMER Chelsea midfielder Slavisa Jokanovic has replaced Billy McKinlay as Watford boss to become the Hornets’ fourth manager of a disruptive season at Vicarage Road.

Jokanovic, who began a two-year spell at Claudio Ranieri’s Chelsea in 2000, arrives at Watford from Spanish third tier side Hercules following stints at Levski Sofia, Muanthong United and Partizan Belgrade, where he secured consecutive Serbian league titles.

The 46-year-old succeeds ex-Scotland international Billy McKinlay, who was in charge for a total of eight days after Oscar Garcia – himself a replacement for Beppe Sannino, who quit in August – stepped down due to health reasons.

“There can be no compromise on this, whatever the circumstances” said Watford owner Gino Pozzo. “Given the talented squad which has been assembled and our position in the league, an experienced head coach with a winning pedigree is of primary importance to help ensure the success we are all striving for.”

Jokanovic takes charge of a Watford squad who lie third in the Championship table, level on points with top two Norwich and Nottingham Forest. Former Fulham midfielder McKinlay has been linked with the Craven Cottage vacancy.